Decadent Dark Chocolate Layer Cake
There are cakes, and then there's the Decadent Dark Chocolate Layer Cake – a confection that transcends ordinary dessert categories to become a celebration of chocolate itself. This cake isn't just a treat; it's an experience, designed to satiate the deepest chocolate cravings with its rich, complex flavors and silky textures.
Crafting this cake is akin to painting with the finest chocolates. It begins with choosing high-quality cocoa and dark chocolate, each ingredient promising to contribute its unique notes to the symphony of flavors. This cake's allure lies not just in its taste but in its layers, each one offering a slightly different chocolate intensity, culminating in a harmonious blend that's both deep and satisfying.
The joy of baking, much like the joy of eating, is found in the details. The process of creating the Decadent Dark Chocolate Layer Cake is a journey through the nuances of chocolate, from selecting the perfect cocoa percentage to mastering the smooth, glossy ganache that serves as both filling and frosting.
This cake stands as a testament to the power of chocolate, offering a moment of pure, unadulterated pleasure with every forkful. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake promises to elevate any moment into a memorable celebration of flavor.
As we explore the recipe, ingredients, and techniques required to bring this cake to life, remember that the art of baking is about more than just following steps; it's about infusing your creations with passion and precision. So preheat your oven, and let's embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the very essence of chocolate.
✅ Quick Tips: Read the recipe in its entirety before you start cooking. This will help you understand the ingredients, steps, and timing involved, and allow you to prepare any necessary equipment or ingredients beforehand.
- 2 cups of sugar
- 1 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cups of dark cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons of baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 cup of strong black coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 pound of dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, mix together sugar, flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add eggs, buttermilk, coffee, oil, and vanilla; beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. The batter will be thin.
Pour batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes; remove from pans to wire racks. Cool completely.
For the ganache, heat the cream until it simmers. Pour over chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Add vanilla and salt.
Assemble the cake by placing one layer on a plate, covering it with ganache, then adding the second layer and covering the entire cake with the remaining ganache.
Chill until set, about 1 hour, before serving.
- Enjoy!
Serving Size 1
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 520kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 30g47%
- Saturated Fat 18g90%
- Cholesterol 120mg40%
- Sodium 280mg12%
- Total Carbohydrate 58g20%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 42g
- Protein 6g12%
- Calcium 50 mg
- Iron 3 mg
- Unsaturated Fat 10g
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter.
The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
For an even richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of liqueur to the ganache.
